Guide to Study in Canada for International Students

Canada is rated as one of the most wanted destinations for international students worldwide. It is a more affordable and secure option to studying in the United States while still ranking high in quality.

The country hosts some of the world’s top 100 universities and consistently has over 800,000 study permit holders. If you are set to study in Canada, booklab24 has put together this step-by-step guide for you.

Step 1: Understand the requirements

To successfully apply, you must understand the various requirements of the schools and the courses they offer. The applicants will also be required to study the rules and regulations that apply to the study permit application process. Only recognized schools and approved study periods are considered under the program.

Ideally, start a year in advance to apply for a study permit. Among the requirements common to all universities and institutions are a current passport, skills in either English or French, proof of having passed the prescribed language tests with a minimum grade/band required, and proof that you have adequate funds to finance your studies and living expenses. Requirements may differ from province to province.

Step 2: Select course and institution

The first step in selecting an institution is to check whether the institution is a Designated Educational Institution. Only higher education institutions can enroll international students.

While applying to study in Canada, you must complete some core courses. Although the Canadian university system is flexible regarding changing courses, it’s best to compare your options in advance and choose a major that interests you.

Step 3: Take the language proficiency test

Moreover, all international students will have to pass one of two language exams: English or French. Regarding the former, IELTS is the most preferred language proficiency test, though some will also accept Cambridge English: Advanced or TOEFL exam results. For French, you can choose from DALF, DELF, or TCF, but TEF is conducted more often.

You choose the test, pay the fee, and book the dates in advance. You obviously work on improving your language skills so that the application may not be rejected.

Step 4: Apply to the University

Take this bold step to communicate with the preselected universities, ask for the application materials, and forward them quickly. While the decision to apply to as many as a dozen universities can be helpful, you have to consider the amount needed to process the forms, which is $100-$250 per university. Do more than apply mindlessly by comparing your options; pick your favorite course and institution, then go for one or two as an alternate course.

Be careful when filling out the application form and ensure that it contains correct information, which can be proven with documentary evidence. Then, you will have to endure the excruciating wait until you get your acceptance. After confirming your interest, the university will send an acceptance letter that plays an important role in the formalities that ensue.

Step 5: Apply for a study permit.

Now that you have secured a ready-to-accept institution, begin applying for a study permit in Canada. This application should be supplemented with the letter of acceptance obtained in the previous step, your passport, and documented proof that you have sufficient funds to study in Canada.

You may also need to provide an explanation letter, a medical examination, and a guardianship declaration form for minors only, amongst others not stated here. While an explanation letter allows the visa officer to get a better understanding of your intentions—it explains why you want to study in Canada and will enable you to understand your responsibilities as a student—a medical examination might be required if:

• You want to stay in Canada for more than six months
• You have recently been somewhere
• You will work in an occupation where public health must be protected
• If you are going to study in the province of Quebec, you will also receive a “Quebec Acceptance Certificate” with the letter of admission. Attach this document when applying for your study permit.
• Book an appointment for fingerprint and photography, also called biometrics, as early as possible to avoid delays.

Step 6: Travel time

Once your application is processed and an interview is conducted, if necessary, an immigration officer will decide whether to grant you a study permit. If accepted, it’s time to plan your trip to Canada.

Your permit will have an effective date; that’s when it is valid. Remember this: you cannot enter Canada prior to this date. Keep this date in mind while preparing your travel plans.

Step 7: Study time

The immigration officer will ensure that you have all the required documents, including your permit, at the port of entry before he allows you to enter the country of Canada.

English Exams Needed to Study in Canada

If you are from a non-native English-speaking country, proof of your competence in English will be necessary. Fortunately, most Canadian universities accept diverse types of evidence and tests, as discussed below:

• TOEFL Internet-based IELTS Duolingo Test of English GMAT GRE Canadian Academic English Language
• Undergrad majors in English; non-STEM
• High school in English; STEM
• Business schools
• Master’s in English; non-STEM
• Teacher of English; STEM
• PhD in English

These may vary slightly higher or lower from one degree requirement to another at different universities. If you apply through Global Admissions, we’ll ensure your score meets the criteria. You need a GMAT score of 550 or 630 for business school MBAs for major programs.

Best Canadian Universities

The following are some of the best Canadian universities:

• University of Toronto
• University of British Columbia
• University of Montreal
• University of Ottawa
• York University

Conclusively, studying in Canada as an international student provides opportunities and a conducive environment. You can always try the application procedure with a positive attitude.